Peter Drew, an Australian street artist, has been making waves with his 'Aussie' poster series for over a decade. Unlike the enigmatic Banksy, Drew embraces his identity as a vandal, proudly claiming ownership of his art. What makes Drew's work particularly intriguing is his intention to challenge assumptions about Australia's national identity and promote inclusivity. The 'Aussie' series, which began in 2016, features archival images of ethnically and culturally diverse individuals, with the word 'Aussie' prominently displayed underneath. Drew estimates he has put up 5,000 posters across Australia, all hand-printed and coloured by him. What makes this project truly fascinating is Drew's commitment to self-funding and his desire to maintain control over the project's narrative. He believes that by doing so, he can ensure that the project remains true to its original vision and that everyone involved understands the impact of their support. The posters, which come from the national archives, often feature individuals about whom Drew knows little, adding an element of mystery and intrigue to the project. One of the most rewarding aspects of the project, according to Drew, is the conversations it has sparked with people across Australia. He finds that curiosity often leads to a more nuanced discussion, allowing him to share the history and context behind the images and challenge xenophobic sentiments. Despite the popularity of the posters, Drew has faced criticism and even verbal abuse from some who disagree with his work. However, he remains committed to his mission and believes that his art has the power to spark important conversations and challenge assumptions about national identity. In my opinion, Drew's 'Aussie' poster series is a powerful example of how art can be used to promote inclusivity and challenge xenophobic sentiments. His commitment to self-funding and maintaining control over the project's narrative is a testament to his passion and dedication to his work. As he continues to expand the series and explore new themes, I am eager to see how his art will continue to evolve and impact Australian society.
